Trade rumors surrounding the Vancouver Canucks are intensifying, especially concerning center J.T. Miller and his possible return to the New York Rangers, where he previously played for six seasons. Reports indicate the Rangers attempted to trade struggling center Mika Zibanejad for Miller last November, but the Canucks declined the offer. Discussions about Braden Schneider have also surfaced, as the Canucks expressed interest in the 23-year-old defenseman, although the Rangers were reluctant to let him go.
Additional reports suggest that the Canucks are evaluating their options with multiple teams regarding Miller and center Elias Pettersson, including the Carolina Hurricanes, who had engaged with Vancouver about Pettersson prior to his eight-year contract. The Boston Bruins are also in the mix, reportedly wanting to acquire one of the Canucks' centers, with a focus on getting younger.
While the Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to add a center, they are deemed not high on the list for players like Pettersson or Miller. Meanwhile, the New York Islanders have also expressed interest in Pettersson. The Canucks are said to be seeking a center in return for either player, potentially eliminating the Bruins and Leafs from consideration.
Industry analysts caution against trading either Miller or Pettersson, suggesting that such a move could be detrimental to the team's future. Vincent Trocheck of the Rangers is also highlighted as a player of interest in trade talks, yet the team is not open to moving him, as he may take on a leadership role in the future. The Canucks' management faces critical decisions regarding their star players amidst this flurry of trade discussions.
